A State Rarity Rank of S2 means: Typically 6 to 20 occurrences, few remaining individuals, acres, or miles of stream, or factors demonstrably make it very vulnerable in New York State.

Global Rarity Rank:G4G5

A Global Rarity Rank of G4G5 means: Apparently or Demonstrably Secure globally - Uncommon to common in the world, but not rare; usually widespread, but may be rare in some parts of its range; possibly some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors. More information is needed to assign a single conservation status.

Did you know?
If at first glance you see a tree with leaves and bark that looks like white oak (Quercus alba) in a swamp with red maple, then look closer to see if it is swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor). Swamp white oak leaves are hairy on the lower surface, whereas white oak lacks hair on the underside of the leaves.

There are an estimated 20 to 30 extant occurrences statewide. Very few documented occurrences have good viability and few are protected on public land or private conservation land. This community has a somewhat limited statewide distribution that is primarily concentrated on the coastal plain where there are a few small, good quality examples. The current trend of this community is probably stable for occurrences on public land and private conservation land, or declining slightly elsewhere due to moderate threats that include alteration of the natural hydrology and introduction of invasive species.

The number and acreage of red maple-swamp white oak swamps in New York have probably declined slightly, or remained stable, in recent decades as a result of wetland protection regulations. Since World War II, urbanization has emerged as the predominant force impacting wetlands in most parts of the region (Golet et al. 1993).

The number and acreage of red maple-swamp white oak swamps in New York have probably declined substantially from historical numbers likely correlated with agricultural and other development. The principal causes of wetland loss in the Northeast prior to mid-1800s include conversion of wetlands to agriculture, the construction of impoundments for hydropower and water supply, and the cutting of swamp timber for lumber, fence posts, and fuel wood (Golet et al. 1993).